2017 Race

The second ever Saddleworth Rangers Alderman’s Ascent was another successful run to help raise funds for the club’s youth teams.

On Thursday, July 6, 98 juniors and 63 seniors took on the tough, off-road run around Greenfield.

Darren Graham, race organiser, said: “Over £500 was raised on entry fees alone. Along with the BBQ, sweets stall and also the junior team’s sponsors, the total money raised should easily beat last year’s figure of just over £1,000.

“Numbers were up from last year, helped by the sunny warm weather. Thunder storms were predicted but luckily never happened.”

The junior races started up at Binn Green where Rangers Juniors, running clubs from Calder Valley, Holmfirth and Saddleworth took part. St Anne’s Rugby club also sent their Under 14s team to add to the competition.

There were five races to cover all ages, with each race having a different distance to suit each age group.

Darren added: “It was a great atmosphere and the children all enjoyed the tough descents at the end of each race.”

The senior race started and finished on Churchill Playing Fields, with the 8.5km route taking runners up towards Pots and Pans, then to Shaw Rocks and over to Alderman’s Hill.

“The technical descent off the top saw runners have to fully concentrate on their footings before turning around and heading straight back up!” said Darren.

“From the top, it was then an easier and relatively pleasant downhill run back to Churchill field.”

He concluded: Overall, the evening was a great success. Runners left praising the route and also the new club house. The sun shone and everyone had a great evening watching the prize givings.”